Student Success Stories
Florence-Darlington Technical College has a long history of generating career success for our students. Don’t take our word for it though, these Student Success Stories from our current and past students serve as beacons of achievement, showcasing the triumphs, challenges overcome, and the transformative impact of education on their lives. Listen, or read their stories and see the impacts FDTC has had on them. Their stories not only celebrate their accomplishments but also offer valuable insight for those embarking on their own educational journey.
Jennifer Smirba
At Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC), students find more than just an education; they discover a supportive community that transforms lives. Jennifer Smirba’s story reflects the heart of FDTC, capturing the profound impact of its faculty and the nurturing environment that sets it apart from other institutions.
Read MoreBrad Carr
Brad Carr is the owner of Grigg’s Circle Bakery and he’s an FDTC Alumni. After opening his bakery, Brad decided to enroll in our management program in order to keep growing the bakery and run it as smooth as his icing.
Komi Kassa
For Komi Gagnon Elvis Kassa, known simply as Elvis, the path to Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) began halfway across the world in Togo, West Africa. Born with a congenital heart defect, Elvis underwent open-heart surgery at just two months old. That single, life-saving procedure didn’t just give him the gift of life; it gave him a purpose.
Read MoreMadison Shake
Madison Shake was a high school student attending college at FDTC through our dual-enrollment program. She took welding classes at our Lake City Campus located within The Continuum.
Christian Lutcken
Christian Lutcken’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of education, perseverance, and following one's passion. As a proud alum of Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC), Lutcken reflects on how his experiences there laid the foundation for his career as a flight nurse. From overcoming challenges to discovering his calling, Lutcken’s story underscores the vast opportunities that technical education can provide.
Read MoreStefanie Stewart
Stefanie Stewart graduated from high school and college with the class of 2023. Through Florence-Darlington Technical College’s Early College Academy, she was able to earn both her Associate of Science and Associate of Arts degrees while attending high school. Stefanie was also the salutatorian at Darlington High School. She will continue her college journey at Florida A&M University majoring in biology pre-medicine starting Fall of 2023 as a sophomore.
Micah Yates
Micah Yates has a lot of reasons to smile! He’s getting a top-notch education at Florence-Darlington Technical College, where he is enrolled in the Dental Hygiene program. He was a starting player on the FDTC baseball team that went to the JUCO World Series in 2021. And he’s got big plans for making a difference in his local community after graduation.
Read MoreAndrew Long
My name is Andrew Long. My proudest accomplishment is being accepted into the Caterpillar ThinkBIG program at Florence-Darlington Technical College. When I complete the program in June of 2024, I will have earned my associate degree in Diesel Technology, one year of Caterpillar dealer experience, and a year’s wages by working in a sponsored internship. And I will have guaranteed employment with Blanchard Machinery upon graduation.
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